The take-and-bake pizza chain sets sights on untapped Georgia market.

The Columbus restaurant scene is heating up and Papa Murphy's is looking to take a slice of the pie. The nationwide brand does not have a presence in Columbus and is looking to enter the market and add five new locations to the area. Atlanta native, Gary Payne, says the unique concept is what attracts people to Papa Murphy's. 

“Folks take it home and make it themselves when they’re ready for it,” Payne told the Ledger-Enquirer. “While that might sound inconvenient, the consumers find it to be very convenient. They actually cook the product when they’re ready to eat it rather than it show up after it has been cooked a half hour ago.”

The brand has more than 1,500 stores in 38 states and offers pizzas ranging from Angus Steak & Roasted Garlic to Spicy Fennel Sausage. The brand has a large presence in the western and eastern portions of the country and is hoping to tap into the Atlanta market, starting with Columbus. 

“We’re targeting more of the moms and families who are trying to solve a dinnertime dilemma, which is: How do I put something tasty and high quality on the table when I want to without making a whole dinner? That’s sort of the appeal we have,” Payne told the Ledger-Enquirer. “So it’s a little bit different than the competition out there ... We’re excited to get in there. and we hope to get it done soon.”

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